Fred's First Goal for Union a Big One

Through the first 10 games, the speedy Brazilian midfielder had his share of
chances to score. But it never came to fruition for one reason or another.

The immensely talented 30-year-old knew his time would eventually come.

That it did in the Union’s 3-1 victory over Seattle Sounders FC in the debut of
$122 million PPL Park on Sunday.

In the 79th minute, Fred found himself on the receiving end of a cross from
Sebastien Le Toux, knocking home the go-ahead goal to give the Union a 2-1
lead.

“I was so happy,” Fred said in the jubilant Philadelphia locker room. “I saw
the ball and my eyes got big. It felt great.”

Scoring goals is nothing new for Fred.

He spent 10 seasons at leading Brazilian side América-MG where he scored 20
goals in 80 appearances, playing alongside Arsenal superstar Giberto Silva. He
also played in the first division of the State Championship with his hometown
side, Guarani Minas Gerais, where he tied as the second top scorer.

In 2006, Fred started each of the 20 games he saw time in as a member of
Melbourne Victory FC. He scored four goals and dealt out nine assists as
Melbourne put together a 14-3-4 record -- best in the Hyundai A-League. Fred
had an outstanding game in the A-League Grand final, dishing out four assists
in delivering the Victory their first championship.

In ’07, Fred scored seven goals and added eight assists in 26 games for D.C.
United.

Injuries hampered him in ’08 and ’09, but he’s healthy now for the Union. Was
that ever evident against Seattle.

Fred was active the entire game. When you’re active, good things tend to
follow.

“Peter (Nowak) kept telling me to stay with it, stay with it,” Fred said. “I
got a good chance at the net and scored. It was a great feeling, and I was
happy for the fans, too.”

Fred’s teammates saw a spark in his game.

“You could see from the beginning that he was ready,” said defender Jordan
Harvey. “Fred is a fun-loving type of person to begin with, but he had great
energy. I think playing at home helped. He’s so talented in the midfield. He
can score as he showed.”

Fred said the most important part of the day was winning the game.

“Yes, I scored and that felt great,” Fred said, flashing a grin. “We won the
game. I am happy for our club and our fans.”